Frequently Asked Questions

How will studying abroad in Costa Rica improve my employability after college?

From firsthand experience, we can say that job candidates that have experience studying abroad claim a distinctive competitive edge over their competition. The National Association of International Educators finds in one recent study that "the United States economy faces a significant demand for a workforce that can seamlessly integrate into the global economy." In the same study, of surveyed employers, a significant number agreed that candidates with international study experience are likely to possess key skills such as:

Cross-cultural communication skills (98%)

Independence (97%)

Cultural Awareness (96%)

Maturity (94%)

Flexibility (90%)

What's more, studying abroad in Costa Rica will greatly improve your practical speaking, reading and comprehension skills in Latin American Spanish - a language, contrary to that of other less spoken varieties of Spanish, that the vast majority of Hispanic individuals in the United States speak. Also, the culture and values experienced in Costa Rica will prepare you to understand those of the general Latino population with which employers will expect you to interact.

Do I have to speak Spanish to go on a UGA Costa Rica study abroad program?

No. Except for Spanish courses, classes are taught in English. However, this is a great way to learn or improve your Spanish and immerse yourself in a Spanish-speaking culture through homestays and other program activities.

What is included in the program cost?

What isn’t included in the cost?

Airfare, tuition and personal expenses are additional costs. Airfare ranges on average between $600-$800 USD. For personal expenses, such as souvenirs, snacks, and extra-excursions, we recommend that students bring around $200.00 USD in cash ( in $10 or $20 bills) in addition to an ATM card that may be used to withdraw money as needed from their US bank account . We strongly recommend that students also travel with a credit card (Visa or Master Card) to cover any unexpected expenses such as a medical emergency. Do not bring traveller's checks, and remember to call your bank and credit card company to inform them of your travel plans.

Are scholarships available?

Also, UGA's Office of International Education offers several scholarships to students wishing to travel abroad. You should consider applying for any and all scholarships available, as you are able to receive funds from multiple scholarships.

Is it true out-of-state students pay in-state tuition on study abroad programs?

Yes. For Maymester, Summer, and Semester-Long programs, out-of-state students will pay in-state tuition for the credit hours they are taking on the San Luis campus. This means it's cheaper for an out-of-state student to study abroad in Costa Rica for a semester than staying on campus in Athens.

Can freshman study abroad in Costa Rica?

Absolutely. In fact, students are encouraged to study abroad as early in their studies as possible. Early exposure to new and unique experiences such as studying abroad will help you learn more about your strengths and interests - both important insights that will aid you tremendously in your success at the university and in your future career.

What courses can I take in Costa Rica?

Depending on your major and degree program you can take core, elective and/or major-specific courses. Please see the program page to find out which courses are offered.

Is there an application fee or program desposit required?

There is no application fee to apply! Accepted students are asked to submit a program deposit to secure their spots by the Withdrawal deadline. Program deposit amounts and deposit deadlines can be found on your intended program's page.

Are the acceptance requirements difficult to meet?

Its important to understand that the application process is not meant to intimidate you but rather to gather information about you so faculty and staff can help make an informed decision about how well the intended program might fit you and your goals. Most accepted students have a good GPA as well as clear goals for studying abroad as described in their statement of purpose. The main reasons a student might be not be accepted is if he/she has a criminal background or serious behavior record.

When will I find out if I am accepted?

Usually, applications will be processed within a week and you will receive an email confirmation of your acceptance within two weeks.

How can I communicate with my family while I am in country?

Due to our campus' mountainous location, cell phones do not usually work. However, you will have 24/7 access to a public phone on campus and inexpensive phone cards are available in our campus store. Additionally, many students take advantage of the wireless internet on campus and speak with their families and friends via the free services Skype and Google Voice and Video Chat. For a small fee, these services can also be used to call international cell phones and land lines.

Will I need any specific immunizations?

Medical Recommendations for travel:

All student international travelers are strongly encouraged to consider the medical aspects related to travel including updating any routine immunizations which may have lapsed after matriculation. Although immunization for Hepatitis A is not required by UGA for admission, it is recommended for all international travelers regardless of your destination.

Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Traveler Website www.cdc.gov travel which lists recommended and required vaccines for US travelers, as well as other health risk information. When doing so, consider every potential destination on your itinerary, and not necessarily limited to your school sponsored program. UGA University Health Center operates a full service Travel Clinic to help you. https://www.uhs.uga.edu/services/travel-clinic for more information. Currently, in 2017, Costa Rica does not have specific immunization requirements for entry when coming from the United States, however there are entry requirements for travelers coming from certain countries.

How do I get reimbursed for medical treatments received while on my program?

Save all your receipts related to any medical treatment you received while on your program and covered by the study abroad insurance plan. Insurance information is available for students under the "For Accepted Students" tab on our website. Additional insurance information may be found on UGA's Office of International Education wesbite. Be sure to make a personal copy of your receipts and reimbursement form.